CHAPTER 28
Malta to Rome
The shipwrecked crew and Paul arrive to warm greetings in Malta. As Paul is helping the islanders build a fire, a viper latches onto his hand.
“This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, the goddess Justice has not allowed him to live.”v.4
Paul shook the snake off and suffered no ill effects, so the people switch from calling him a murderer to exalting him as a God. Three months after wintering in Malta and healing the sick, Paul’s journey to Rome continues.
Once in Rome, Paul is placed under guard but allowed to have his own quarters. The local Jewish leaders have not heard anything bad about Paul and are interested in hearing Paul out since they had already heard “people everywhere” talking against the sect.
A large number of Jews gathered to hear Paul preach. He quotes Isaiah, advising them that God has extended salvation to the Gentiles, for “they will listen.”
“For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!” v.30-31
Let’s Talk About It
Unplanned, but Not Unprepared
Malta was an unexpected stop on the journey to Rome but because of Paul’s relationship with God, because of his unwavering conviction, because of how he had surrendered his life, Malta witnessed the power of God through Paul. “…feet shod with the preparation of the gospel.” Galatians 6:9
Destiny
Nearly half of the New Testament was written in Rome. Consider all it took to get there. Imagine what God may have in store for you should you choose to seek His guidance and trust to follow His lead!
